Rac2 Modulates Atherosclerotic Calcification by Regulating Macrophage Interleukin-1β Production.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

The calcium composition of atherosclerotic plaque is thought to be associated with increased risk for cardiovascular events, but whether plaque calcium itself is predictive of worsening clinical outcomes remains highly controversial. Inflammation is likely a key mediator of vascular calcification, but immune signaling mechanisms that promote this process are minimally understood.

Approach and results

Here, we identify Rac2 as a major inflammatory regulator of signaling that directs plaque osteogenesis. In experimental atherogenesis, Rac2 prevented progressive calcification through its suppression of Rac1-dependent macrophage interleukin-1β (IL-1β) expression, which in turn is a key driver of vascular smooth muscle cell calcium deposition by its ability to promote o

SUBMITTER: Ceneri N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5269510 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature